WWE star CM Punk apologizes for using gay slur

WWE star CM Punk has apologized after being caught on camera uttering an anti-gay slur during a row with a wrestling fan.

During the WWE's live event at Adelaide, Australia's Entertainment Center on Monday, CM Punk - real name Phillip Jack Brooks - engaged in an argument with two men.

The former WWE World Champion accused the fans of acting effeminately and also referred to one man as a "homo".

Video footage of the incident attracted hundreds of views on YouTube, eliciting an official response from the WWE.

A WWE spokesperson told TMZ: "WWE does not condone this type of language or bias and we reinforce that with our talent who are independent contractors."

CM Punk later tweeted to express regret for having used the inappropriate language.

He wrote: "I'm glad TMZ posted that video because everybody needs to be held accountable for their bulls**t, me included. What I said was bulls**t… I'm embarrassed. I own up to being a total douche in this situation and I offer a sincere apology to anybody I hurt with careless words."

CM Punk first joined the WWE in 2005 and has since won the organization's World Heavyweight Championship on three occasions.

He is still scheduled to take part in the WWE's Money in the Bank event, which airs live on pay-per-view on July 17 from the Allstate Arena in Chicago.